Chris Blackhurst, the former group content director at ESI, is set for a more business orientated role in the shake-up.
ESI Media, owner of the Evening Standard, Independent, i and London Live, has announced a series of new appointments as it seeks to develop its business.
Chris Blackhurst, previously group content director, is appointed multi-media head of business for all titles and platforms.
James Ashton, who as head of business led the creation of the company’s integrated business department, moves to a new role, becoming executive editor and will work with the editors of all titles, writing commentaries and carrying out interviews.
On ‘i’, Andy Webster has been appointed deputy editor whilst Fran Yeoman has been appointed assistant editor of news.
On the Independent titles, Neil Robinson is appointed night editor. Martyn Kent is made assistant production editor, and Matt Tench and Emma Hutchings join the production team.
The news comes just before ESI Media boss Andrew Mullins is set to leave his role to take on a new position at Informa as CEO of its knowledge and networking division.
Mullins will be replaced by Metro UK boss, Steve Auckland, who will start the role in October.
Chris Blackhurst will be speaking at MediaTel’s Future of National Newspapers debate on 29 September. Other with panellists include Trinity Mirror’s James Wildman and Telegraph Media Group’s Jim Freeman. See our events page for details.
